Washing machine and method for controlling the same

Abstract

Disclosed are a washing machine, in which substances stuck to the surface of a heater are washed off to minimize the generation of scale on the heater, and a method for controlling the same. The washing machine includes a tub; a heater installed in the tub for heating washing water; and a washing device for washing the heater. The washing device includes a spray nozzle for spraying the washing water to the heater, and a washing pump for supplying the washing water in the tub to the spray nozzle. The washing of the heater is performed in the first rinsing operation.

1. A method for controlling a washing machine, in which washing water is sprayed to a heater installed in a tub so as to wash the heater, comprising:
 determining whether a rinsing operation is carried out; 
 draining the washing water from the tub to a level at which the heater is not soaked in the washing water, when the rinsing operation is carried out; and 
 performing the washing of the heater after the washing water is drained from the tub to the level at which the heater is not soaked in the washing water. 
 
     
     
       2. The method according to  claim 1 , wherein the washing of the heater is performed using a residual washing water in the tub. 
     
     
       3. The method according to  claim 1 , wherein:
 the rinsing operation is carried out more than one time; and 
 the washing of the heater is performed only in the first rinsing operation.